Do you have to pay spousal support forever?

Do you have to pay spousal support forever?

How Long Must One Pay Alimony (Spousal Support) For longer-term relationships, as well as in cases where the parties’ have children, the courts generally do not place a time limit on alimony. This does not mean you’ll need to pay spousal support forever or that you’ll receive spousal support forever.

Is spousal support and alimony the same?

“Spousal support” is the money that one spouse may have to pay to the other spouse for their financial support following a separation or divorce. It is sometimes called “alimony” or “maintenance.” Spousal support is usually paid on a monthly basis, but it can be paid as a lump sum.

What happens to spousal support when I retire?

If there is no end date or review date in your separation agreement or court order, spousal support is considered indefinite. Where that is the case, it is open to you and your former spouse to negotiate the issue of ending spousal support on your retirement.

Is Social Security subject to alimony?

Under Section 459 of the Social Security Act, Social Security benefits are subject to withholding, garnishment and other similar legal proceedings for spousal or child support debts. In cases involving a judgment for unpaid alimony, the act also permits garnishment of benefits for related court costs and penalties.

Does spousal support affect Social Security benefits?

Social Security retirement benefits impact alimony when paying and receiving alimony. If you are a supporting or supported spouse then the amount of Social Security retirement income will be factored in when calculating the alimony payment.